So far, I really love this first chapter. It sets the scene perfectly for the timescale, and also for Percy and Penelope's relationship. I love how you've set it during Herbology too, and your little details, like Sprout getting dung all over Percy's books and his blushing and watching his brothers, really make this chapter special.

I think you've characterised Percy really well so far too. He is pompous and knows it, but also worries about how people percieve him; I think this is exactly how he'd be, trying to be the 'sensible brother'! He takes pride in his work and knowledge to the point of annoyance, and i think you created that well too - trying to impress and expecting to succeed.

I love all the little details and descriptions you put in, like the description of how Percy was trying to get to the greenhouse, and ultimately displaying his character rather well, as well as why he liked Herbology. It was really sweet and made us feel a lot closer to him! I also like how he noticed Penelope - with this shy interest, and how he described her, and tried to talk to her. Poor Percy, getting laughed at! But already I like Penny, because she was being nice to him when everyone was giggling.

Author's Response: Helloo! Thank you so much! I tried to make sure the first chapter at least was bright and very Percy-like. I wanted to show the transition into him turning into a lovesick puppy haha, so set up something to compare it to straight away! Ahh, the little things are the bits I always feel I don't pay enough attention to. It's fantastic to know you felt I did here :)

I completely agree - I was a bit worried about including the part where he gets the question wrong, but then I figured that of course he wouldn't be utterly perfect. It's obvious he's not, especially from later books where he's anti-Harry. But yet, yeah, there is that pompous side to him, and people know it, so in a way he's the brunt of their jokes.

I'm really glad you liked this chapter, and it means loads to get such a thoughtful response from you! Thank you! Laura x